Sedation
Welcome to the pediatric dental office of Dr. Ryan Colosi, providing specialized dentistry for infants, children, teens and individuals with special needs in a child-friendly environment. We focus on preventive care to help each child have a healthy smile that will last a lifetime.
Nitrous
- We utilize nitrous oxide, better known as laughing gas, for most of our treatment procedures. It’s the preferred sedation method for pediatric dentists because it’s safe, the effects are almost instantaneous, and it only takes a few seconds to clear out of their systems once the treatment is over. Nitrous oxide does not put a child to sleep, it just helps them remain calm and still so that we can safely complete treatment. It is well tolerated by children, and the most common side effect is mild nausea that subsides as soon as it is turned off.
- Nitrous oxide is administered through a small mask that fits over your nose, it is an effective way to calm anxiety, raise your pain threshold, calm a strong gag reflex, and even make time seem like it's passing quicker than usual. As the gas begins to work, you will become calm, although you will still be awake and able to talk with the dentist.
- At the end of your appointment, you'll resume breathing regular oxygen, and all the effects of nitrous oxide will disappear, so you can resume your normal activities immediately.
- As your child gets older and becomes more comfortable with the dentist, nitrous oxide may not be needed. Dr. Ryan aims to provide as much treatment as possible utilizing nitrous oxide. He believes firmly in its safety and efficacy and has taught multiple dentists about nitrous oxide at the US Navy Postgraduate Dental School.
Oral Sedation
- For children, a trip to the dentist can be scary. While we will always use a gentle touch whenever we work with your child, some children tend to be more anxious than others and may need a little extra help to relax in our dentist’s chair. We offer oral conscious sedation to help your child overcome dental fears and receive the care they need without anxiety. Your child’s medical history is carefully examined to prevent any drug interactions; once sedated your child will be able to respond to simple commands but will ideally become calm and relaxed for the procedure. Oral sedation dentistry for your child’s dental anxiety is simple.
- Valium pre-medication is classified as a benzodiazepine that is utilized to help relieve anxiety in a dental setting. This medication is given in-office 45-60 minutes prior to the beginning of treatment and dosed according to your child's weight. Your child should become more relaxed with use but will remain alert and aware throughout the entire procedure. The most common side effects following valium pre-medication include drowsiness, unsteadiness, and lack of coordination. Therefore, your child may not return to school, and active adult supervision is required. No active playing or activities is allowed for the remainder of the day; however, your child may return to normal activities on the following day.
General Anesthesia
- We always prefer to complete dental procedures in the least invasive manner possible. Most children can complete treatment with nitrous oxide and local anesthetic, but some patients require IV or GA sedation. These patients are typically either very young, have special needs, or have extreme dental anxiety. We offer outpatient hospital sedation at Carolina Surgery Center in Rock Hill as well as in-office sedation utilizing pediatric dental anesthesiologists from Ambulatory Anesthesia Associates. If your child requires sedation to complete dental treatment, the dentist will discuss your options with you, and our staff will help you schedule and coordinate the procedure.
- A deposit will be required prior to scheduling the procedure, and it will apply to your balance. Once the appointment is scheduled, if you choose to cancel or reschedule, the deposit is non-refundable. Feel free to talk to us in the office or give us a call.
Contact Us
Lake Wylie Pediatric Dentistry
534 Nautical Drive
Lake Wylie, SC 29710
Phone: 803-619-5155
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Hours
Monday - Thursday
8:00am - 5:00pm
Summer Hours:
7:30am - 2:30pm